3.6 - Adaptation of gametes

Question 1

What is the function of folllicle cells in the ovum?

Answer 1

Secrete chemicals that activate release of enzymes from the sperm

Question 2

What is the function of lipid droplets in the ovum?

Answer 2

Source of energy for growth & division

Question 3

What is the function of the zona pellucida in the ovum?

Answer 3

hardens once the sperm nucleus has entered the ovum (prevents polyspermy)

Question 4

What is the function of lysosomes in the ovum?

Answer 4

Release chemicals that cause zona pellucida to harden

Question 5

What is the function of the flagellum in a sperm cell?

Answer 5

made from proteins & microtubules, which uses ATP to propel the sperm forwards

Question 6

What is the function the acrosome in a sperm cell?

Answer 6

Contains digestive enzymes which break down the zona pellucida of the egg

Question 7

What is the process of mammalian fertilisation?

Answer 7

Acrosome reaction = enzyme in acrosome digest the zona pellucida. Sperm nucleus enters the egg cell
cortical reaction = causes zona pellucida to harden, preventing polyspermy
Nucleus fusion = restoring full set of chromosomes, forming a diploid zygote